Competition Corner: Light It Up With 2021 December Auto Events
It’s December, and that means seasonal depression is pounding on your front door. But rather than sinking into the couch, forgetting about your passion, and adopting a permanent lifeless stare, consider paying attention to the exciting automotive events we’re about to fill you in on. This Competition Corner promises to deliver the thrills and spills you need to blast through the dreaded cold season in stride.
Mint 400
Remember when you were going to pack up and hit the Mint 400 back in March? Boy, what a disappointment it was to learn that it had been postponed. You couldn’t kick off spring watching the grittiest, most determined drivers tackle the Nevada desert track where only half would finish.
Well, guess what? The rescheduled date is already here. Clear your schedule December 1-5 and click the link to get the details.
Mecum Kansas City
It’s Mecum – you know, the collector car auction you can’t help but watch any time it’s on. Tune in December 2-4 and see what’s going down in Kansas City. Besides being a great way to gain a little project car inspiration, you might just find a little something to bid on. In fact, with four buzzy collections set to cross the block, there’s a very good chance you’ll find a new toy. This link has all the information you need to get started.

54th Annual Snowball Derby
No, it’s not a snowball fight/demolition derby extravaganza (damn) but it is the biggest event in the super late model series. Better yet, it’s the 54th time it’s going down. December 2-5 guarantees to be a blast, as some of the best racers in the division will be battling it out on the 5 Flags Speedway in Florida. Click here for sunshine and race fuel fumes.
Nemadji Trail Rally
Any time you hear the name Dirtfish, you know you’re in for a good time. There really is nothing like rally racing, and the drivers in that class can keep their low-sanity levels to themselves while we watch from the sidelines. The Nemadji Trail Rally on December 4 is a great place to see just what it’s all about as drivers tackle 36 miles of untamed Minnesota track. It’s the kind of thing that changes you for life, and you can’t afford to miss it. Everything you need to get your blood pumping like never before is right here.
FuelFest
The Fast and Furious franchise isn’t for everyone, but there’s no arguing that it’s largely responsible for the direction car culture took since the early 2000’s. This event does more than give the fans what they want by associating the name with Paul Walker. FuelFest was established by Walker’s brother, Cody, and brings out the best in car enthusiasts who love nothing more than to take part in the ever-growing scene, express themselves, and give back.
It is a pretty wild show in itself, but the proceeds help Reach Out WorldWide, a non-profit founded by Paul Walker. So, what are you doing December 4? Click here if heading to Arizona for an unforgettable automotive experience sounds enticing.
Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show
During the warmer months, the entire country is a destination for classic car lovers. Everywhere you look, there are countless events celebrating this part of American car culture. During the winter, it’s a different story. Pomona, California becomes the only place many hotrodders think about. Well, that’s where you need to be for the Pomona Swap Meet and Car Show on December 5. You’re sure to find the coolest cars and hardest parts to nail down there, all while you soak in that sweet, sweet sunshine. We’re done wasting your time. Here’s the link you need.
SNORE McKenzie’s Rage At The River
Winters not all bad. It’s just a little ice on the ground, maybe some moisture in your bibs, nothing to worry about. Doesn’t sand beat freezing cold rocks, though? And isn’t it better to watch off-road madness machines blast through it at astronomical speeds rather than trying to fix that stubborn balljoint when your fingers are frozen? We think so, and the SNORE McKenzie’s Rage at The River December 9-12 has plenty of sand and machines to offer in the Nevada Desert. You already know you’re interested, so here’s the link.
International Off-Road & UTV Expo
You want to know what you should consider for your next build? Go to trade shows. Yes, car shows are great for inspiration, too, but there’s no guarantee anyone has the same goal you do. At trade shows, you meet with hundreds of vendors who can pique your interest with hot products or help you find the best solution for your plan with industry experience.
That said, the International Off-Road & UTV Expo December 10-12 in Phoenix, AZ is THE show for you dirt fanatics that love nothing more than off-road rigs. There won’t be any floor space given to anyone but the vendors who have the solutions you need. Everything you need to know is right here.

ChampCar: Sebring Holiday Special
ChampCar has a special place in our hearts. It’s a series of events that gives the average car enthusiast a chance to get behind the wheel and experience those legendary tracks the pros get to exploit. Not in a light cruise, either. This is a real competition.
If that’s something you’re interested in trying out for yourself, then December 18-19 is your chance to tackle Sebring, yes that Sebring, in the only proper manner. No, you don’t need a special license or pro-level crew. You don’t even need your own car. What you do need is to click here to learn more!
Winter Jam
We told you that Sonoma is the place to be in the winter, and that statement is not solely for classic car lovers. Point and case? Winter Jam! This is a drift competition that puts 40 drivers on the track to prove who the boss of the circuit is – and December 18-19 they tackle Sonoma Raceway.
This wildly popular form of driving is still in its grassroots state, so you need to get out and show support so it can grow. Click here to find out how.
Daytona KartWeek
Kart Racing really needs to be more prevalent in car culture. It might not be quite as ferocious as some other divisions, but it’s a great way for new drivers to make a name for themselves in the industry. Plus, there’s a lot of technical driving skill required, there are still really killer machines – all ways to get spectators’ blood pumping. That’s why we think you should check out this link and learn more about Daytona KartWeek running December 27-30.


